Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are one of those kitchen appliances people don’t think about… until they start humming, clogging, or making a noise that sounds like a toolbox in a blender. And in many Harrisburg homes, the garbage disposal gets heavy daily use, especially during busy weeks, holidays, and family gatherings. Fortunately, most disposal issues are preventable with the right habits.

Below, we’ll cover practical, easy tips for keeping your garbage disposal running smoothly for years.

How Long Should a Garbage Disposal Last?

Most garbage disposals last 8 to 15 years, depending on the model, how often it’s used, and how well it’s maintained. Higher-quality units can last longer, but even the best disposal can wear out early if it’s constantly overloaded or used like a kitchen trash can.

If your unit is approaching the 10-year mark and you’re dealing with frequent clogs, leaks, or strange noises, it may be time to start thinking about replacement (or, at the very least, have a plumber take a look before it fails completely).

Avoid putting these items down your disposal:

• Grease, oil, and fat
• Bones
• Coffee grounds
• Eggshells (despite the myth, they can create gritty buildup)
• Pasta, rice, and bread (they expand and can clog drains)
• Potato peels (they are starchy and can form a thick paste)
• Celery, corn husks, onion skins, and other fibrous foods
• Fruit pits
• Shrimp shells
• Stringy vegetables (like asparagus)
• Non-food items (paper towels, produce stickers, utensils)

A helpful rule of thumb is if it’s tough, stringy, starchy, or greasy, toss it in the trash instead.